Atlanta Falcons QB battle and guard Chris Lindstrom's top ranking

The Atlanta Falcons are weighing their quarterback options heading into the 2026 season. With Michael Penix Jr. recovering from a partially torn ACL and limited offseason participation, the team also has veteran Tua Tagovailoa, who has been dominant in practice. New quarterbacks coach Alex Van Pelt indicated the Falcons hope to decide on a starter weeks before the season opener, leaving the competition open as Penix works toward full clearance.

Meanwhile, right guard Chris Lindstrom continues to anchor one of the NFL’s strongest offensive lines. Executives rank him sixth among interior linemen and the top guard in the league, noting his durability and elite run‑blocking. Lindstrom, a 2023 free‑agent signing worth $102.5 million through 2028, remains a key leader and a major investment for the Falcons’ offensive identity.